Practice of sending thank you notes almost obsolete

Kirsten Geddes

Published 11:16 am, Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Right after Christmas, everyone is usually busy trying out the new toys, listening to the CDs and examining the gadgets they got as presents. When enjoying your Christmas gifts, it is important to keep in mind that a lot of thought went in to buying these gifts for you, and you might want to thank the people who gave them for picking out something so special for you. Thank you cards are an easy way to let your friends and family members know you are grateful, but it is a practice that is almost obsolete.

Thank you cards don't have to be very long at all; just a quick little note saying how much you have enjoyed their gift. If they provided more than one, you can bring up a specific one you enjoyed. If the present was money, you might tell them how you plan to spend it, especially if you wish to save up for something special. Also, if the person lives far away and sent the present by mail, this is a great way to confirm that you have received the gift.

Receiving a gift is not the only time you can or should send out a thank you note, however. If you stayed the night at the house of a friend or relative, or someone helped you with a special project, you should let them know just how much you appreciated their hospitality or support. Anyone who aids you in some way is deserving of a sign of how much you care, even something as simple as a hand-written note in the mail.